U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a call on Thursday to discuss efforts toward a lasting peace between Israel and Iran, according to the State Department. The dialogue followed President Donald Trump’s announcement of a ceasefire between the two rivals, halting a conflict that erupted on June 13 when Israel launched strikes against Iran.
During the call, Rubio underscored the U.S. position that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons. The conversation emphasized the importance of joint efforts to ensure stability in the Middle East, especially following a series of retaliatory strikes. The U.S. targeted Iranian nuclear sites last weekend, prompting Iran to strike a U.S. base in Qatar on Monday before the ceasefire was declared.
Tensions in the region had already been high since Israel’s offensive in Gaza began in October 2023. Israel, widely believed to possess nuclear weapons, has said its operations against Iran aim to prevent Tehran from achieving nuclear capability. Iran remains a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, unlike Israel.
Pakistan plays a unique role in the geopolitical landscape. It hosts Iran’s interests in the U.S. through its embassy in Washington, as Tehran and Washington have no direct diplomatic ties. Trump also recently met Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, to discuss regional security, with Trump noting Pakistan’s deep understanding of Iran.
Despite condemning both Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran, Pakistan earlier this month nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his role in ending a four-day conflict between India and Pakistan.
The high-level talks reflect ongoing efforts by the U.S. and Pakistan to mediate and maintain peace in one of the world’s most volatile regions.